MUSIC

US library opens National Jukebox with free music

WASHINGTON — For the first time, the Library of Congress is streaming some of its vast collection of sound recordings of popular music, speeches and comedy online for free.

Harry Connick Jr. will visit the library Tuesday to help introduce a new website called the National Jukebox. Connick will perform one of the songs featured on the site, written by music legend Eubie Blake.

Up to now, library users had to go to the library in Washington to hear the sound recordings. Now, thousands of rare, historic recordings and special features will be available to many more people through the free site. It includes early jazz, dance music and opera.

The site, announced with Sony Music Entertainment, allows users to create and share their own playlists.